Moving to a new city may be daunting with new unfamiliar surroundings and maybe not knowing many people but the best thing to do is embrace.
When you arrive, the best thing to do is start by getting all the admin sorted. Get a doctor and a bank account and all the other basics sorted so you don’t need to worry about them later. Once all the boring stuff is out of the way you can start to make the most of your time there.
Take care of yourself
Make sure to take care of your mental wellbeing. Moving to a new city can be very overwhelming, therefore, it is essential to take time to care for yourself. You may want to immerse yourself into the city but it is important that your mental wellbeing is well.
Say yes to as many opportunities as possible
If you are presented with an opportunity say yes! You have no idea what this will mean for you and the people that you could potentially meet. Taking part in lots of activities will also mean you get to have new experiences as well as meeting new people. Trying to stay positive is very important when you can be overwhelmed or missing family and friends.
Be prepared to go outside your comfort zone
If you are sticking to going to the same coffee shops and hanging about with the same people you will limit yourself to new experiences. Try new places to eat or hang out, moreover, going on a different walking route can help for you to discover new places.
Don’t be afraid to do things alone
Moving to a new city and not having many friends can be scary, but don’t be afraid to do things by yourself. Even if you do have lots of friends, they might not always be around but don’t stay at home by yourself. Going on solo adventures will mean that you will have the opportunities to meet new people. You will pick up new friends along the way anyway.
Join organised groups
In the new city try joining groups such as volunteering groups, book clubs etc. Maybe trying a new hobby in the new city will also be something exciting for you to try. Taking a class in something that you are passionate about will also enable you to meet people with similar interests.
Figure out how to be a local
Figuring out the local transport is important to be able to get around the city cheaply and efficiently. Additionally, finding your local shops and grocery stores. You can also figure out what places sell the best coffee or where you can find the best cheap eats! Furthermore, downloading local apps can help you to navigate the new city, many cities offer apps from local takeaway to bikesharing. Understanding the local life will help you to be able to live in the city more freely.
Ask for connections
Don’t be embarrassed to ask people for connections before you go and while you are there. Meeting new people is all part of the experience and if you can connect with people before you go that is even better. Make plans before you move to meet these people when you arrive so you don’t feel too alone, in addition to having something to look forward to.
Stay in regular contact with your friends and family from home
Moving away can be lonely for some people, however, you should be patient as you will soon make loads of new connections. It is important to stay in contact with your friends and family back home. It may be really expensive to call back home if you are abroad, but apps such as Skype are free and easy to use.
Go with the flow
Things will not always go as they have been exactly planned so loosen up and accept that that is life. Focus on yourself and do whatever makes you happy! Parts of our lives may change and we need to be equipped to deal with that but it is important to realise that things won’t always go to plan.
Written by Rebecca Walker
Rebecca is a social anthropology student with interests in medical anthropology, including the wellbeing of people, how different people use different methods for positive wellbeing, and how our mental health can shape our lives. She has passion for positive social change and how equality in access to healthcare and wellbeing care can bring this change.
